Need to officially update your name with the IRS? A “Sample Letter To The IRS Requesting Name Change” is what you need. It’s used when you’ve legally changed your name due to marriage, divorce, or other reasons. This ensures your tax records match your current identity.
Writing to the IRS can feel daunting. You want to get it right. Luckily, we’ve got you covered.
In this article, we’ll share sample letters. These templates will make the process simple. Use them as a guide to craft your own letter.
Sample Letter To The Irs Requesting Name Change
[Your Full Name]
[Your Address]
[Your City, State, Zip Code]
[Your Phone Number]
[Your Email Address]
[Date]
Internal Revenue Service
[IRS Address]
[IRS City, State, Zip Code]
**Subject: Request for Name Change**
Dear Internal Revenue Service,
I am writing to request a change of name with the Internal Revenue Service (IRS). My previous name was [Your Previous Full Name]. My new legal name is [Your New Full Name].
This name change is due to [Reason for Name Change: e.g., marriage, divorce, court order].
I have attached the following document as proof of my name change: [Specify Document: e.g., Marriage Certificate, Divorce Decree, Court Order].
My Social Security Number is [Your Social Security Number].
I kindly request that you update your records to reflect my new name, [Your New Full Name].
Thank you for your time and attention to this matter.
Sincerely,
[Your New Full Name]
[Your Signature – if sending a hard copy]
How to Write Letter To The Irs Requesting Name Change
Subject Line: Clarity is Key
The subject line is your opening gambit. Make it pithy and unambiguous. Steer clear of ambiguity. A succinct subject line ensures your letter is routed correctly and addressed promptly.
- Example: Subject: Name Change Request – [Your Taxpayer Identification Number] (SSN or EIN)
Salutation: A Formal Overture
Begin with a formal salutation. While you might harbor feelings of frustration towards bureaucracy, now is not the time to showcase them. Etiquette matters, even with the IRS. A professional commencement sets a constructive tone.
- Example: “Dear Internal Revenue Service,”
- Alternative: “To Whom It May Concern:” (Use if you lack a specific contact)
Introduction: Declare Your Intent
The introductory paragraph should articulate your request without circumlocution. Be direct. State your previous name and your new name, along with your taxpayer identification number. This transparency expedites the process.
- “I am writing to formally request a name change associated with my taxpayer identification number [Your Taxpayer Identification Number].”
- “My previous name was [Your Previous Full Name], and my new legal name is [Your New Full Name].”
Body: Substantiating Your Claim
The body of your letter is where you furnish the documentation that substantiates your claim. Include the reason for your name change and attach pertinent legal documents. For instance, a marriage certificate, divorce decree, or court order. Providing irrefutable evidence minimizes delays.
- Explain the reason for the name change (e.g., marriage, divorce, court order).
- “Enclosed, please find a copy of my [Marriage Certificate/Divorce Decree/Court Order] as evidence of this legal name change.”
- Reiterate your taxpayer identification number and both names for clarity.
Contact Information: Facilitating Communication
Provide up-to-date contact information. This allows the IRS to reach you should any queries or exigencies arise. Include your current mailing address, phone number, and email address. Double-checking this information is paramount.
- Current Mailing Address: [Your Current Mailing Address]
- Phone Number: [Your Phone Number]
- Email Address: [Your Email Address]
Closing: A Cordial Farewell
Conclude your letter with a professional closing. A courteous sign-off leaves a positive final impression. Indicate that you are available should further information be required. Conciseness and politeness are virtues here.
- Example: “Thank you for your time and attention to this matter. Please do not hesitate to contact me if you require any further information.”
- Acceptable closings: “Sincerely,” “Respectfully,” or “Cordially,”
- Followed by your signature and typed new full name.
Enclosures: Ensuring Completeness
Explicitly list all enclosed documents. This ensures nothing is overlooked and provides a checklist for both you and the IRS. A comprehensive list demonstrates diligence and thwarts potential administrative snags.
- List each document included (e.g., “Copy of Marriage Certificate,” “Copy of Driver’s License”).
-
- Copy of [Relevant Document 1]
- Copy of [Relevant Document 2]”Enclosures:
Frequently Asked Questions: Sample Letter to the IRS Requesting Name Change
This section provides answers to common inquiries regarding submitting a name change request to the Internal Revenue Service (IRS). Understanding the process can help ensure your request is processed efficiently and accurately.
What information should I include in my name change request letter?
Your letter should include your full former name, full new name, Social Security number (SSN), current address, a copy of the legal document authorizing the name change (e.g., marriage certificate, divorce decree, court order), and your signature.
Where should I mail my name change request letter?
You should mail your letter to the address provided on the IRS website for your specific state of residence. This ensures your request is routed to the correct department.
Do I need to notify the Social Security Administration (SSA) before notifying the IRS?
Yes, it is crucial to notify the SSA and update your name in their records before contacting the IRS. The IRS verifies information with the SSA, and inconsistencies can cause delays.
Will the IRS send me confirmation that my name has been changed in their records?
The IRS generally does not send a confirmation notice. You can verify the change by filing a tax return using your new name and observing whether it is processed successfully.
What if I have moved since my legal name change?
Include your current address in the letter and any previous addresses associated with the SSN. Also, file Form 8822, Change of Address, with the IRS to ensure all records are updated.